In an emotionally charged moment during the public unveiling of his memoir “OPL245: Inside Story of the $1.3 Billion Nigerian Oil Block”, former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Bello Adoke, declared that he has forgiven all who played a role in what he describes as a long and painful ordeal.
The event, held in Abuja on Thursday, was both reflective and revelatory as Adoke addressed years of allegations, investigations, and legal battles tied to the controversial OPL245 oil block deal.
Though visibly moved, he stood firm in his conviction that his actions were both lawful and in service of the country.
“I did not set out to denigrate anyone,” Adoke said to a room full of political figures, journalists, and supporters.
“This book is my attempt to set the records straight and provide insight into a transaction carried out to protect Nigeria’s economic interest in hydrocarbon exploitation.”
Adoke, who served as AGF during the Goodluck Jonathan administration, was central to the implementation of a 2011 oil block agreement—an arrangement that became the subject of prolonged scrutiny and legal action, both in Nigeria and abroad. Despite not being part of the original 2006 deal, he says he bore the brunt of a campaign to discredit him.
“I suffered immense public odium, a damaged reputation, and a shattered family life,” he recalled.
He specifically accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of misconduct, saying their investigators suppressed evidence and coerced witnesses to secure a conviction against him.
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Yet despite his criticisms, Adoke emphasized healing over hostility.
“Permit me to say that I have forgiven all those who had a hand in my ordeal,” he stated.
In a particularly noteworthy moment, he acknowledged Ibrahim Magu, former acting EFCC chairman, for extending an apology and expressing remorse.
“I admired the courage of Ibrahim Mustapha Magu in coming forward to make up with me,” he said. “I have forgiven him.”
Adoke’s memoir aims to offer his perspective on one of Nigeria’s most complex oil deals and the high-stakes political drama that followed.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with corruption, transparency, and institutional reform, his account adds another layer to the national discourse.